10 cycling routes to ride before you die
Have you ever wanted to find out how hard the journey Land’s End to John O’Groats really is? Or see the sights of Peru from the seat of your bike? Here’s how top Garmin tech such as the Edge and Vector can help you navigate these iconic bucket list of cycling routes, races and tours.
1. Land’s End to John O’Groats, United Kingdom Distance: 874.3 miles
Starting at Land’s End on the southernmost point of England, you’ll pedal yourway up to the North Coast of the Scottish Highlands. It’s a tough challenge but one that will create lasting memories as you uncover some of the most picturesque and unspoilt areas of the country.
A journey this long needs a premium sat nav. Try the Edge Touring Plus to avoid going off track.
2. Granfondo Campagnolo Roma, Rome, Italy Distance: 76.5 miles or 39km
Toted as the perfect cycle route for ‘fans of heroic cycling’, the Granfondo Campagnolo Roma lets cyclists encounter the history, culture and beauty of the landscape around Rome. The main route is designed for trained riders, but for a more leisurely ride the ‘In Bici ai Castelli Romani’ course is suitable for all levels of fitness.
Sharpen your cycling performance ready for the next race with the Edge 520.
3. Cape Argus Cycle Tour, Western Cape, South Africa Distance: 68 miles
This circular route starts in Cape Town and takes in the sights of the Cape Peninsula. The largest individually timed cycle tour event – the Cape Argus Race – takes place along this route, however it is a joy to cycle if you’d simply like to explore the Western Cape and its wineries, or even do a little bit of whale spotting.
Complement your sightseeing and stay connected with a lightweight bike computer, such as the Edge 520.
4. Saint-Malo – Rennes – Arzal, Brittany, France Distance: 68.5 miles
Take in central Brittany with a ride between St-Malo and the port of Arzal, via Rennes. The pastoral countryside is complemented by a network of picturesque canals, making this a particularly enjoyable cycle route for the summer months. Explore a spattering of historic towns along the way.
Get from A to B (and all the stops in between) with the Edge Touring.
5. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia Distance: Numerous routes available
Whether your passion is mountain biking, road cycling or cycling for leisure, the Great Ocean Road offers a selection of rides that are highly varied, sometimes challenging and always scenic. The proximity to Melbourne makes this a fantastic destination for travelling cyclists.
The Vector 2S can be carried in your luggage and installed easily, making this the perfect power meter to take on your travels.
6. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, Canada – United States Distance: Seven routes available
This one is not for the faint hearted! With over 200,000 feet of elevation gain and mountain pass terrain, only confident cyclists need apply to tackle the longest off-pavement route in the world! The good news is that this is one of the best routes to view wildlife, including wild horses, deer and eagles.
The Edge 810 combines navigation and performance features for serious cyclists.
7. The Timber Trail, Pureora Forest Park, New Zealand Distance: 54 miles
The Timber Trail in New Zealand can be easily accessed from many of the main towns in the region. You’ll travel across eight suspension bridges, exotic rivers and acres of ancient forests. Purpose-built for cyclists, this route can be completed within just 2 days.
Feel extra safe on your adventures with the Edge 1000, perfect for navigating, tracking your journey and staying connected.
8. Cycle Route 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Distance: 30 miles
Amsterdam – one of the top cities for urban cycling – offers a number of fantastic routes, but we’ve chosen Cycle Route 9 for its cross section of grassland, villages, waterside paths and its medieval sea dike.
Explore the city’s suburbs and bring your ride to life with the Edge 200.
9. Zermatt, Valais, Switzerland Distance: Numerous trails available for all abilities
Zermatt in Switzerland is based at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most impressive mountains in the Alps. Luckily, bikes can be transported using one of three mountain lifts! This is one of the best locations to take in some fresh mountain air.
Tackle the uphill climbs of your chosen trail with the Vector S and you’ll gain valuable insights into your pedal power.
10. Inca Trail, Cusco, Peru Distance: 122.5 miles
Experience some legendary history and encounter the breathtaking Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This course could be right for experienced mountain bikers who are able to handle rocky terrain, long climbs and downhill descents.
Measure your pedal power and cycling dynamics on this tough trail with the Vector 2.
Take a look at the full range of Garmin cycling technology
here to find your bucket list cycling companion.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land%27s_End_to_John_o%27_Groats
http://www.discoveradventure.com/challenges/land-s-end-to-john-o-groats-cycle
http://www.granfondoroma.com/en/
http://www.exodus.co.uk/south-africa-holidays/cycling/cape-argus-cycle-tour/msh-85152
http://cycling.brittanytourism.com/troncons/saint-malo-arzal
http://www.visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/cycling/
http://www.nzcycletrail.com/timber-trail
